Once we heard that Brammo was hitting the dirt in a Las Vegas motorcross race we had horrific visions of a bright green Enertia with knobby tires struggling within the dirt, pitching its rider over the bars at the first yump it encountered. Thank goodness we are able to now say with confidence that isn’t the case. The corporate has announced it has not one but two new models coming, both specifically designed to address questionable terrain. The Engage is a whole-sized dirtbike, available in both motorcross (offroad) and supermoto (onroad, mostly) variants, and is only one letter wanting a stupendous marketing tie-in. It starts at $9,995 for the on or off road racing versions after which steps as much as $11,995 for the road-legal SMS Super Moto, you could see above wearing some pre-production bodywork. There’s also the Encite MMX Pro, a more hardcore racing version that lacks a worth. More details and a video after the break.
Interestingly these bikes forego the quality fare direct-drive systems present in most electric motorcycles (including Brammo’s previous offerings), hoping on a six-speed gearbox sourced from SMRE. Having a half-dozen cogs and a clutch on tap is standard for a traditional bike however the (relatively) high torque and RPM range in an electrical motor has usually meant they aren’t necessary. Brammo’s saying that the extra ratios will improve acceleration down low and accelerate high, but unfortunately that continues to be to be seen because the company hasn’t released any specifications whatsoever — not even weight. What really matters is the way it performs over the jumps, and for that we’ll must look forward to the result of the Vegas Mini Moto SX race this Friday.
Ashland, OR, and Italy, May 4th 2011–Brammo, Inc. an international leader within the electric vehicle industry and S.M.R.E. Engineering, a number one engineering research and development company today announced that Brammo and SMRE have entered right into a strategic partnership. As part of this agreement, Brammo has acquired an exclusive international license of SMRE’s patented Integrated Electric Transmission (IET). IET enables Brammo to provide its electric motorcycles with a 6 speed transmission – further improving performance and range. The primary application of the recent IET shall be at the Brammo Engage and Encite that are announced today and a good way to be unveiled sooner than competing within the MiniMotoSX race in Las Vegas on Friday, May 6, 2011.
“It’s fundamental to Brammo’s success that we continue to innovate and develop our strong reputation for top of the range, exciting motorcycles,” stated Craig Bramscher, CEO and founding father of Brammo, Inc. “Combining the SMRE Integrated Electric Transmission system with the Brammo Power™ Batteries and Battery Management System keeps Brammo on the forefront of Powersports drivetrain technology.”
“We’re delighted to have Brammo as our strategic partner.” said Samuele Mazzini, founder and CEO of SMRE and creator of the IET™. “This alliance will see the IET integrated into Brammo motorcycles and enjoyed by riders everywhere in the world.”
Today Brammo announces four new models all featuring the IET™ and swappable Brammo Power battery packs.
• Engage MX – dirt bike competing in MiniMotoSX – anticipated price $9,995.00
• Engage SMR – Super Moto Racing – anticipated price $9,995.00
• Engage SMS – Super Moto – anticipated price $11,995.00
• Encite MMX PRO – mini dirt bike competing in MiniMotoSX – no price announced
Prices don’t include relevant taxes or Federal and State electric vehicle incentives.
The Engage and Encite join the award winning Enertia and stunning Empulse. Together, these four model ranges offer motorcycle dealerships one of the most comprehensive range of electrical motorcycles available. Brammo continues to expand its dealership network in North America and should be adding many new dealers over the subsequent 90 days.
Integrated Electric Transmission (IET™) – The IET™ is a mechatronic propulsion unit that emulates the sensation and function of a standard internal combustion engine, with a specially developed electric motor, clutch and power shift, that allows Brammo motorcycles to accelerate hard from the road as much as a high top speed, something it’s just impossible to accomplish with a single ratio electric motorcycle.
“Electric motorcycle design has always been just a little a balancing act in direct drive systems where great acceleration performance comes on the expense of low top-end speed.” Stated Brian Wismann, Director of Product Development at Brammo. “The IET™ system provides the proper of both worlds and is the ideal complement to Brammo’s industry leading Brammo Power battery and vehicle control technology to take care of our position because the world’s leading electric motorcycle manufacturer. ”
About SMRE
SMRE srl is an Italian engineering company with a robust emphasis on innovation through research and development. SMRE distinguishes itself during the creation of top of the range revolutionary technology. By working closely with its customers, SMRE is ready to develop custom engineering solutions that redefine the bounds of what’s thought possible. For additional information, please visit www.smre.it
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